Flood and storm hazard

Flood and storm hazard in the Cessnock LGA

Cessnock is no stranger to the impacts of severe weather. From damaging storms to flash flooding, these hazards can happen with little warning - so being prepared is essential for your safety and the safety of others.

Storms

Severe storms can bring strong winds, heavy rain, large hailstones, and lightning. They can cause flash flooding, damage roofs and trees, disrupt power, and create dangerous road conditions.

Storms are more frequent in NSW from September through to February, but can happen at any time of the year.

Preparing for storms

  • Trim trees and clear gutters before storm season
  • Secure outdoor items like furniture, bins, and trampolines
  • Know where to find emergency warnings (e.g. radio, weather apps, TV)
  • Check your home and contents insurance
  • Create your storm plan via this NSW SES planning tool

During a storm

  • Stay indoors and keep pets inside
  • Move away from windows and glass doors
  • Do not drive through floodwater
  • Stay clear of drains, creeks, trees, power lines and damaged buildings
  • If you're driving, pull over safely and turn on your hazard lights

Flood risks in the Cessnock area

Flooding can occur near rivers, creeks, low-lying land, and major stormwater drains. In Cessnock, even localised flash flooding can cut off access to homes, damage property, and affect power and sewerage infrastructure.

Flash Flood Warning Systems in the Cessnock LGA

Cessnock City Council maintains flash flood warning systems in the area. Find out more on the Flooding page here.

Flood safety starts with preparation

  • Know if your property is in a flood-prone area
  • Understand your flood risk and create a Home FloodSafe Plan
  • Prepare your emergency kit and include supplies for pets
  • Review your insurance coverage
  • Make sure your farm or business has a flood plan
  • Check Cessnock’s flood studies here
  • Find your property on our Online Mapping System

During a flood

  • Never enter floodwater: walking or driving through it is the leading cause of flood-related deaths
  • Stay tuned to ABC Radio Newcastle (1233AM) and official channels for updates
  • Be ready to evacuate if advised by the SES
  • If safe, move valuables and electrical items to higher ground
  • Prepare pets and animals for evacuation
  • Call Triple Zero (000) in life-threatening situations.
  • For flood assistance, contact the NSW SES on 132 500.

Animals in an evacuation

Don’t forget your pets and animals when making your emergency plan. Floods and storms can quickly become life-threatening for animals if you’re not prepared.

If you have pets:

  • Pack a pet emergency kit with food, water, bedding, and carriers
  • Keep leads, cages and medications somewhere accessible
  • Have a plan for where you’ll take your pets if you need to evacuate
  • Never leave animals behind if it is unsafe to return

If you have livestock:

  • Move animals to higher ground early, before floodwaters rise
  • Ensure fencing, gates and handling equipment are in good condition
  • Have food and water sources protected from contamination

If evacuation is needed, contact the Hunter Local Land Services/NSW Department of Primary Industries with:

  • Your contact details
  • Type and number of animals
  • Your location and handling facilities
  • Feed and water availability
  • Details of any problem animals

You are responsible for the safety and welfare of your animals during a disaster. Planning early makes evacuation and recovery much easier.

Roads, utilities and power outages

Flooding and storms often cause road closures and power outages. Stay informed and plan ahead:

  • Visit Live Traffic for real-time road updates
  • Contact your utility providers about outages or interruptions
  • Keep a battery-powered torch and radio in your emergency kit

Power outage safety

  • Keep fridge and freezer doors closed to preserve food
  • Once power is restored, check food temperatures (cold food should be below 5°C)
  • Find out more about power outages on Ausgrid's website.

Council's role during storms and floods

During severe weather events, Cessnock City Council supports emergency agencies such as the NSW SES, RFS, and Police. Council assists with road closures, public safety messaging, and the coordination of local recovery.

The NSW State Emergency Service (SES) is the lead agency for flood and storm response.

Related information

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